Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on May 7, 2022.
Commonly used brand name(s)
In the U.S.
- INVanz
Available Dosage Forms:
- Powder for Solution
Therapeutic Class: Antibiotic
Pharmacologic Class: Beta-Lactam
Chemical Class: Carbapenem
Uses for ertapenem
Ertapenem is used alone or in combination with other antibiotics to treat infections caused by bacteria in many different parts of the body. It works by killing bacteria or preventing their growth. Ertapenem will not work for colds, flu, or other virus infections. Ertapenem is also used to prevent infections after having surgery of the colon and rectum .
Ertapenem is available only with your doctor's prescription.
Before using ertapenem
In deciding to use a medicine, the risks of taking the medicine must be weighed against the good it will do. This is a decision you and your doctor will make. For ertapenem, the following should be considered:
Allergies
Tell your doctor if you have ever had any unusual or allergic reaction to ertapenem or any other medicines. Also tell your health care professional if you have any other types of allergies, such as to foods, dyes, preservatives, or animals. For non-prescription products, read the label or package ingredients carefully.
Pediatric
Appropriate studies performed to date have not demonstrated pediatrics-specific problems that would limit the usefulness of ertapenem in infants and children 3 months to 17 years of age. Use in infants younger than 3 months of age is not recommended .
Geriatric
Appropriate studies performed to date have not demonstrated geriatrics-specific problems that would limit the usefulness of ertapenem in the elderly. However, elderly patients are more likely to have age-related kidney problems, which may require caution or adjustment of dosage in patients receiving ertapenem .
Breastfeeding
There are no adequate studies in women for determining infant risk when using this medication during breastfeeding. Weigh the potential benefits against the potential risks before taking this medication while breastfeeding.
Interactions with medicines
Although certain medicines should not be used together...
